Driving test made mandatory for all expatriates seeking new licenses
If you are an expatriate and are looking forward to apply for a new driver’s license, prepare to once again put on your student’s garb.
Expatriates from places like Australia, the UK and other European countries should pass necessary tests in order to be granted a driver’s license, reported Gulf Times.
Earlier, people from these nations could walk away with a license by presenting their documents from home and passing a mandatory eye test.
A British embassy spokesperson told Gulf Times that the new requirements were applicable only to new applicants and not those seeking renewals.
“The British embassy is liaising with local authorities to establish the reasons for the change. We understand the new requirements apply to all nationalities previously able to exchange without a test,” a spokesperson said.
The embassy has already informed British nationals living in the country about the new regulation. British visitors holding valid full UK licences may still drive for up to seven days from arrival, or up to six months if held in conjunction with a valid international driving licence.
Reports say that citizens of other European countries and Australia are also required to take the tests now.
Swedish ambassador Ewa Polano said she had heard about it, but was awaiting more details.
“I heard quite a lot about this from my colleagues. However, I’m still waiting for confirmation if the new rule applies to Swedish nationals as well. Most probably, it’s the same for Sweden and other European countries,” she said.
Meanwhile, sources in various driving schools said getting a Qatari licence, especially for those without any driving experience, remained ‘very difficult.’ The low passing rate is also a huge concern.
It generally takes many months to get a schedule for theory lessons, and at least another two or three months to start road practice. Getting a schedule for theory, parking and road tests leads to another long wait, said a learner at one of the schools.
Hi Does anyone know if the rules for driving with an international licence have changed? My father is coming to visit.
Hi Does anyone know if the rules for driving with an international licence have changed? My father is coming to visit.
I have changed my kuwait driving licence to qatar temporary driving licence before Implementing new rules,then I went back to my home country.Now I'm plan to come under new response my question is is it possible me to Renew my temporary Qatar driving licence.what's the procedures,Please kindly give me good response.Thanks
Hi Guys i really appreciate this equality, at least in the driving license process.i remember the pain i experienced to get a license here in Qatar.on the other hand the other listed nationalities licence holder's where just come exchange deal.Good Step!! indeed.
Does any one know Qatari Driving license is valid in how many countries? or just a small test required to get the license. Thanks..;-)
how about removing the ban on some professions ?
Or is this retaliation for poor drivers with Qatari licenses being requierd to sit the test/lessons in other countries because of poor driving habits?
New rule, MALAYSIANS NOT REQUIRED, JUST CONVERT
its a good thing that every expat is treated equally and i guess there wont be any issue for new license seekers to go through the test also...issue is the way the whole process goes and the way its done....the delay in appointments plus failing the candidates for reasons which they dont know either in some cases is unfare...there is no harm in setting up the rules but rules should be for everyone...